Perhaps the most difficult thing about planning a vacation is trying to decide on a destination. If you have your heart set on a Mediterranean island, chances are that you have already done a great deal of research. While a lot of these islands break the bank, there are many beautiful, affordable options that not only look amazing, but will provide you with a great time at an lower price.

Prices also vary greatly depending on when you decide to take your trip. For example, “high season” in the Mediterranean is usually from May to September. Prices for flights are also variable based on the season. To save yourself money on flights, here are some tips on how to maximize your credit card points.

These are the months, much like in the United States, where there is the most sunshine with the highest temperatures. Places south of the Mediterranean, such as Greece and southern Italy, not only reach the highest temperatures during these months, but also have a higher average temperature during the winter months.

Essentially what this means is that you can get a great vacation at any time — not just during the Mediterranean’s high season. The 7 most beautiful beaches in the Mediterranean will provide you with great weather no matter when you arrive.

Costa Smeralda, Italy

If you are looking for sandy beaches with bright blue water, look no further than Costa Smeralda. This is the most exclusive part of the popular island of Sardinia and is an especially great vacation choice for couples looking to relax a bit.

Not only does Sardinia have amazing restaurants with five star food to choose from, but it is a place that celebrities frequent, which means you will have plenty of entertainment if you are into people (and yacht!) watching.

Arguably the best thing about this island is the short distance between the airport and the beaches. If you fly into Olbia, you are looking at a painless 30 minute car ride.

Paphos, Cyprus

There is no putting this lightly: Paphos, especially in summer months, is HOT. With average daily temperatures of 91 °F, it’s probably not a great idea to bring your little ones on this vacation unless you’re prepared to supply endless amounts of sunscreen and popsicles to keep them cool and hydrated.

Paphos has so many tourist-friendly attractions that it is truly amazing that it is somewhat underappreciated. Whether you are looking for sandy beaches, historical buildings, or lost tombs to uncover, Pahpos has you covered.

Nice, France

The main hub of the French Riviera, Nice has unique pebble beaches, great restaurants, and celebrities galore. Perhaps most interesting, however, is just how budget friendly Nice has become.

Because it is such a popular spot, prices have gone down dramatically. Retailers, restaurant owners, and hotel chains alike all know that there is plenty of competition, so they are doing everything that they can to get you to go to them instead of a competitor. This means great things for you, the vacationer.

Sicily, Italy

Sunshine, gelato, and volcanoes, oh my! Sicily is a truly unique experience unlike any other in Italy or anywhere else in the world. Not only do they have one of the highest active volcanoes in the world, but it is also warm year-round, which means that you don’t have to go in those tourist popular summer months if you want to get a tan and go swimming at the beaches.

There are plenty of historical churches and buildings to check out when you aren’t at the beach, and Sicily is also a surprisingly great hiking spot if you want to stay healthy while enjoying your holiday away.

Korcula, Croatia

If you are looking for a place that looks like a postcard at every turn, look no further than Korcula. With stunning beaches and their own type of wine, you will feel every bit like a royal if you spend your time here.

With lots of seafood dishes and amazing restaurants, you can eat to your heart’s content and try all of the local cuisine after embarking on the 2 hour sea journey to this serene island.

Mellieha, Malta

Unlike most of the islands on this list, Mellieha is still relatively undiscovered. Bright blue waters that are perfect for diving makes this spot one unlike any other. Not only are you just a step away from megalithic ruins in Mnajdra, but you are surrounded by true beauty.

Even better, Malta is a huge spot for Game of Thrones filming, so it is entirely possible that you can visit sights from the set and get a peek into what it’s like to be part of the cast, even from a distance.

Oludeniz, Turkey

White, sandy beaches are almost synonymous with relaxation and no one does white sandy beaches quite like Oludeniz. Later on, after you have successfully relaxed the day away, you can enjoy some paragliding at one of the several paragliding companies on the beach.

There is a little something for everyone, whether it be those looking for a relaxing place to unwind with their loved one or someone looking for a little excitement.